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→Last Minute Advice on New gTLD Program
===Last Minute Advice on New gTLD Program===
===Last Minute Advice on New gTLD Program===
On January 3, 2012, Strickling sent a letter to ICANN Chairman [[Steve Crocker]] encouraging the internet governing body to consider some implementing measures to ensure the success of the gTLD program before the Application process kicks off on January 12. The Secretary emphasized that NTIA '''"do not seek to interfere"''' with the decisions and compromises made during the 6 years multistakeholder process however the agency believed that ICANN needs to address the huge concerns raised by trademark owners to avoid the "unintended and unforeseen consequences" that might result to failure. He recommended ICANN to consider the following:<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ntia_letter_on_gtld_program_jan_3_2012.pdf NTIA Letter to ICANN, January 3, 2012]</ref> </ref>[http://domainincite.com/strickling-drops-last-minute-bombshell-on-new-gtlds/ Strickling drops last-minute bombshell on new gTLDs]</ref>
* '''minimize the perceived need for defensive registration'''
* '''promptly implement ICANN"s commitment for law enforcement and consumer protection'''
* '''ensure better education for stakeholders'''
Srickling also requested ICANN to consider a "phase in" approach after the deadline of the first round of application. NTIA plans to solicit inputs from stakeholders and work with the GAC to evaluate if additional protections are needed during second level. He said, '''"Having the ability to evaluate the actual situations or conflicts presented by the applied for strings, rather than merely theoretical ones, will certainly assist and focus everyone’s efforts to respond to problems should they arise."'''
In addition, the Secretary urged ICANN to increase its awareness campaign on the program particularly among trademark owners. NTIA believed that many are scared and convinced that they are compelled to file for a defensive dot brand gTLD. He said, '''"We think, and I am sure ICANN and its stakeholders would agree, that it would not be healthy for the expansion program if a large number of companies file defensive top-level applications when they have no interest in operating a registry. I suggest that ICANN consider taking some measures well before the application window closes to mitigate against this possibility."'''
Furthermore, Strickling urged ICANN to strengthen its Registrar Accreditation Agreement ([[RAA]]) and incorporate the proposals of law enforcement agencies as per GAC recommendation, to resolve the issues raised regarding the implementation of the Whois policies and to centralize and automate the complaint process to make it more transparent. Again, the secretary reiterated NTIA's dedication in maintaining and open global internet.
Stricklings letter to ICANN is available [http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ntia_letter_on_gtld_program_jan_3_2012.pdf here]
==Education==
==Education==